Velé Muse: Terra | Not For Sale

We're proud to introduce our first Velé Muse:

TERRA JUDGE | cOO OF NOT FOR SALE

Meet Terra: As COO of Not For Sale, Terra continues her mission to create a world in which all human beings have dignity. She graduated from New York University School of Law and practiced as an immigration attorney in New York and the San Francisco Bay Area, and has also worked in marketing for socially conscious brands, and as a travel writer and editor.

Can you tell us how you initially became passionate about Not For Sale's mission?

As a travel writer, then immigration attorney, and living abroad in Colombia and Argentina, I saw firsthand how people are exploited and communities are changed by globalization. I wished we could use capitalism to create a positive change in the world, rather than a negative one. At Not For Sale, we partner with companies that are committed to ending trafficking, and we show consumers how their buying choices can have a positive impact. A portion of revenue from our partner companies goes to fighting exploitation around the world, and creating economic opportunity for vulnerable communities so their children aren't trafficked in the first place - which I believe will change the world.

What has been one of the most encouraging parts of your role at Not For Sale?

I am completely in awe of the members of our projects around the world, in 8 different countries. Every day, these Not For Sale warriors hug and care for children who have been exploited, walk their towns meeting street kids who might be hungry and alone and vulnerable to trafficking, and they collect evidence against known traffickers. I feel incredibly lucky that we are creating an economic reality that empowers these heroes to do this work.

Make eye contact and smile at the people around you - it will remind you that we're all connected and that our actions affect each other.

Do you have any advice for us in how we can fight trafficking in our every day lives?

I am a big believer that we must be the change we want to see in the world, no matter how small those actions might look. Today, pick up a piece of trash on the street and throw it away. When you go to the store, buy local and organic and items that indicate they have an ethical supply chain. Make eye contact and smile at the people around you - it will remind you that we're all connected and that our actions affect each other. Most importantly, remember that we are all doing our best and everyone's fighting their own battle - so be kind, especially to those who seem like they may be struggling.

How has a friend encouraged you lately?

The best encouragement I get from friends is non-judgment and listening, and a reminder that I am strong and can stand on my own two feet. This is empowerment, and makes me feel so supported, and like I can take risks.

What would you share with a friend who's struggling to know her self worth?

You are the only one who gets to decide how much you are worth - which is the best gift in the world. We will all make ourselves crazy if we try to measure ourselves, so give yourself "the Big Hug" as my mom called it, and drop any and all comparisons. Above all, treat yourself like you were someone you love. Wouldn't you tell your best friend that they're an awesome babe the way they are, and deserve some ice cream? You can tell yourself that too!

Any favorite quotes for when you need a little boost?

"It's a fool who plays it cool, by making his world a little colder" - Hey Jude, John Lennon